Leeds United and Fulham are reportedly showing significant interest in a right-sided Bundesliga player who is also a priority target for a French Ligue 1 club this summer.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke is aiming to bolster his squad across all areas this season and is reportedly exploring potential signings in his native Germany, where he believes value can be found in the market.
Fulham are also active in the transfer market to support Marco Silva and build upon their progression under the Portuguese coach. Their objective is to improve on this season`s eleventh-place finish in the Premier League.
The search for reinforcements has reportedly led both English clubs to Bundesliga side Mainz, where they are keen on a particular right-sided player.
Sources suggest that both Leeds and Fulham are clearly interested in signing Mainz`s versatile right-sided player, Anthony Caci.
This interest places them in direct competition with French Ligue 1 club Rennes, who have also identified Caci as a key target.
Rennes view Caci as an ideal addition and have held internal discussions regarding a potential transfer, although they acknowledge that completing a deal could prove challenging.
His estimated value is suggested to be around €10 million, which Rennes reportedly consider affordable. However, the strong competition from other clubs is seen as the main obstacle to securing his signature.
Bundesliga powerhouse Borussia Dortmund also reportedly see Caci as a potential alternative target should their primary options not materialize.
Meanwhile, Rennes are also considering Kiliann Sildillia from Freiburg as a backup option should they fail to sign Caci.
A move to the Premier League could be very appealing for Caci, and it is currently uncertain which club, Leeds or Fulham, he might ultimately prefer if offered the choice.
Mainz had a successful season, finishing sixth in the Bundesliga and securing qualification for the upcoming Conference League.
Caci was a crucial player in their campaign, making 33 appearances out of 34 league games and contributing a notable seven assists from his position.
While primarily used on the right side of midfield this season, his versatility was evident last term when he was deployed in various roles, including left-sided midfielder, left-back, and even centre-back, showcasing his adaptability.
His contract at Mainz is set to expire in just one year, and the club`s efforts to extend his deal may now face challenges due to the significant interest in the French player from England and France.
